Senior Accountant

Roles and responsibilities

• Perform basic accounting functions such as ledger/fund maintenance, cost analysis, fund reconciliation, posting, and fiscal control of inventory.
• Prepare financial reports from standard operating statistics and/or financial data.
  

ESSENTIAL DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Monitor revenue and expenses for departmental or unit accounts.
• Ensure expenditure control and compliance with funding and reporting requirements, university policy, and standard accounting procedures.
• Construct routine spreadsheet applications, prepare financial data for input into finance and human resources systems, and generate reports; perform calculations which may include interest and depreciation.
• Coordinate the preparation of regularly scheduled and special billings, cost reports, analyses, studies, inventories, and financial statements for local, state, federal and private funding sources.
• Review and approve expenditure, personnel, and purchasing documents for the availability of funding, mathematical correctness, and compliance with university policy and state and federal funding requirements.
• Analyze, reconcile, balance, and maintain accounting records.
• Prepare, review, and process budget, revenue, expense, payroll, and related correcting entries and may prepare bank reconciliations of intermediate complexity.
• Interact with and trains client department staff regarding finance policies and procedures and funding requirements.
• Monitor data processing batches including suspense control, cash counts, and balancing.
• Supervise and/or lead lower-graded staff.
• Assisted in audits and prepared audit work papers.
• Perform miscellaneous job-related duties as assigned.
  

QUALIFICATIONS & EXPERIENCE:

• Bachelor’s degree in accounting Finance or related field, with at least 5-7 years of experience that is directly related to the duties and responsibilities specified.
  

KNOWLEDGE & SKILLS:

• Knowledge of AU financial regulations, and university financial policies and procedures.
• Ability to communicate effectively, both orally and in writing.
• Account balancing and reconciling skills.
• Knowledge of standard and/or fund accounting principles, methods, and applications.
• Ability to analyze and interpret financial data and prepare financial reports, statements and/or projections.
• Ability to set up and maintain financial accounts and ledgers.
• Working knowledge of MS Excel spreadsheet software to quantify and illustrate routine financial reports, statements, and/or projections.
• Knowledge of finance, accounting, budgeting, and cost control procedures.
• Knowledge of computerized information systems used in financial and/or accounting applications.

Desired candidate profile

• Strong knowledge of accounting principles and financial regulations (GAAP/IFRS).
• Proficiency in financial analysis, budgeting, and forecasting.
• Excellent attention to detail and accuracy in financial reporting.

Interpersonal Skills:

• Strong communication skills for presenting financial information to stakeholders.
• Ability to work collaboratively within a team and lead projects effectively.
• Strong problem-solving skills to address complex financial issues.

Technical Skills:

• Proficient in accounting software (e.g., QuickBooks, SAP, Oracle) and advanced Excel skills.
• Familiarity with financial reporting tools and data analysis software.

Personal Attributes:

• Highly organized and able to manage multiple priorities and deadlines.
• Ethical and trustworthy with sensitive financial information.
• Commitment to continuous professional development and staying updated on industry changes.

Responsibilities:

• Prepare and review financial statements, reports, and forecasts.
• Oversee month-end and year-end closing processes, ensuring accuracy and compliance.
• Manage general ledger accounts and ensure proper documentation for all transactions.
• Conduct variance analysis and provide insights for budgetary decisions.
• Assist with audits by preparing necessary documentation and supporting schedules.
• Mentor and support junior accounting staff and assist with their professional development.